Canada is home to a multicultural and diverse population. As a permanent resident, you have the opportunity to become a citizen of Canada. The government body of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) manages matters related to Canadian citizenship.
There are 2 ways to obtain citizenship: by birth or by Naturalization. Naturalization is the process of attending a ceremony and swearing an oath to become a citizen of Canada.
Canada also allows you to have dual or multiple citizenships.
Who is Eligible to Apply for Canadian Citizenship?
You are eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship if you meet the following criteria:
- Be a permanent resident
- Live in Canada for 1095 days (3 years) in the last 5 years
- Be able to speak either English or French
- Not have a criminal record in the recent past or an ongoing criminal case before applying
- Pass a test to prove their knowledge of Canada’s geography, political system, history, and rights of the citizens
What are the Benefits of Canadian Citizenship?
There are many benefits of Canadian citizenship. Being a citizen of Canada grants you the right to vote in elections at all levels of government. It also allows you to run for political office.
Canada allows its citizens to hold dual citizenship, meaning you don’t have to give up citizenship in your home country. However, it depends on if dual citizenship is allowed in your home country.
As a Canadian citizen, you will be allowed to work jobs that require a high-level security clearance at the federal level.
You will also get a Canadian passport as a citizen. You do not need any authorization to exit or re-enter Canada.
If you are a Canadian citizen, your children born in the country will naturally become Canadian citizens. This is also true for children born abroad to Canadian citizens.
Canada’s tax law is based on residency rather than citizenship. Therefore, you can be a citizen, however, you won’t need to pay taxes if you are not residing in the country.
What is Proof of Citizenship?
Proof of citizenship is a document that provides evidence that you are a resident of Canada. You require proof of citizenship while applying for a job, passport, social insurance number, etc. in Canada.
There are 3 types of documents that can be used as proof of citizenship: Naturalization Certificate, Registration of Birth Abroad, and a Citizenship certificate.
A Canadian citizenship certificate can be issued to individuals who fall under the category of being:
- born in Canada
- born abroad to Canadian citizens
- permanent residents who have been granted citizenship.
